Prince highlights importance of ‘credible defence’ and alliances
THE war in Ukraine is a “stark reminder” that there is “no substitute for credible defence”, the Prince of Wales has said, in a strong statement to Britain’s military.
The Prince told troops that fighting Vladimir Putin’s forces has “clearly demonstrated” that hi-tech modern warfare was still no match for “highly motivated and well-trained people”.
Saying “we are all shocked” by images of a return to war in Europe, the Prince said the conflict had “highlighted the importance of alliances”.
“The Royal Air Force has never been more relevant or in more demand in the modern era around the world,” he said.
The Prince has regularly praised Britain’s Armed Forces, but his comments will be seen as particularly significant after the outbreak of war.
He has been heavily critical of the Russian invasion, and has made numerous visits to Ukrainian refugees as well as the charities supporting them. His intervention, which some will view as political, means he follows in the Royal family tradition of support for the military and those who dedicate their life to Queen and country.
The Prince, as Marshal of the Air Force, spoke at a combined graduation parade of RAF aviators, which was also attended by Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, the Chief of the Defence Staff.
A fly-past of a Voyager air-to-air refuelling tanker and two Typhoon fighter jets opened proceedings, which featured more than 500 graduates from RAF colleges at Cranwell and Halton.
The Prince said: “As you join the service in its second century, the Royal Air Force has never been more relevant or in more demand in the modern era around the world. The conflict in Ukraine is a stark reminder that there is no substitute for credible defence.
“The conflict has also highlighted the importance of alliances.”